York Distinguished Alumni Program

York Distinguished Alumni 2025

The following York graduates have been newly selected as York Distinguished Alumni and will be honored in a ceremony on Oct. 15, 2026 in The York High School Commons. Congratulations to

Desiree Baron, Foreign Service Officer & Violinist, Class of 1982
Robert (Robb) Knuepfer, Attorney & Pastor, Class of 1970
Roberta Larson Duyff, Nutritionist & Author, Class of 1966
Julia Schmitt Healy, Artist & Educator, Class of 1965
Biographies comming soon

Do you know a worthy York graduate that deserves to join the elite group of York Distinguished Alumni? Nominations are open and due May 15, 2026.

click here for more information and to nominate an alumnus

YDAP Program Honors York Alumni

In 2013, Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 launched the York Distinguished Alumni Program. The Dukes of Distinction award honors exemplary York Community High School graduates who:

  • Display leadership characteristics through achievement of significant and/or extraordinary accomplishments or service

  • Have made an outstanding contribution to society

  • Serve as a positive influence while exemplifying the honored York traditions of teamwork and selflessness

  • Embody the ideals of YHS and School District 205, therefore bringing pride and prestige to the school, the District and the community

The exemplary alumni who receive the York Distinguished Alumni Award will raise self-expectation among the current students through their realization that these "Dukes of Distinction" once walked the halls of York High School and the streets of this community.

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Dukes of Distinction Hall of Fame